Bimbo Ashiru, Chairman of Odua Investment Company Limited, has called for stronger policies and enhanced public-private collaboration to address Nigeria’s severe housing deficit, which stands at around 20 million units. Speaking at the Wemabod 2026 Real Estate Outlook themed “Unlocking Land and Infrastructure for Inclusive Housing” in Lagos, Ashiru emphasized the need for strategies like affordable housing schemes, infrastructure development, and increased investment to make homes accessible for Nigerians.
Highlighting the economic significance of housing, Ashiru noted: “Housing sits at the intersection of economy, urbanisation, social equity, and multigenerational wealth. While demand continues to rise, supply remains constrained by land accessibility, infrastructure deficits, public sector inefficiencies, and institutional fragmentation.”
With former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo as keynote speaker, Ashiru stressed that unlocking land requires reforming land administration, improving titling systems, and reducing transaction inefficiencies. Unlocking infrastructure involves building foundational networks that make housing livable, accessible, and affordable, while inclusive housing ensures low- and middle-income Nigerians can participate in the property market.
Other speakers, including Nureni Oladipo Adisa and Bashir Oladunni of Wemabod Limited, reinforced that housing development must integrate land, infrastructure, and regional planning. They urged coordinated efforts across cities, towns, and states to deliver well-planned, connected, and resilient communities that drive inclusive economic growth.
